Testimonials See what our patients are saying

“I have been using Latisse for 3 years and have fallen in love with my new and improved eyelashes. They are long and dark, making my green eyes look even more vibrant.”

– Angela

Luxurious, Luscious Lashes in Los Angeles: Latisse

Dramatic, jet-black lashes have long been synonymous with an irresistible feminine mystique. Of course, not everyone is blessed with thick, lush, sexy lashes.

Over time, women have turned to false lashes requiring irritating glues, cumbersome curlers, and expensive extensions. These are temporary, time-consuming and…let’s face it–a hassle. Until Latisse, there were no other options for eyelash enhancement.

Developed by Allergan (the company that makes Botox Cosmetic), Latisse is a groundbreaking semi-permanent topical prescription medication that is clinically proven to stimulate the production of thicker, fuller, darker-looking lashes.

Designed to address Eyelash Hypotrichosis–the medical term for lack of eyelashes–Latisse is an ophthalmic solution that is applied with a brush to the base of the upper eyelashes, along the lash line. Launched in 2008, Latisse is the original and only FDA approved product on the market to promote eyelash growth.

The active ingredient in this medication is bimatoprost, which is a prostaglandin analog that is also used to treat glaucoma. Latisse gained FDA approval for eyelash growth after numerous glaucoma patients using bimatoprost were happily surprised to see their eyelashes becoming luxuriously long and thick.

How Latisse Works

Latisse works by keeping your lashes in the growth phase for a longer period of time and by stimulating the transition from an inactive growth phase to an active one. Lashes, like all hair, grow in three stages: anagen, categen and telogen. The anagen phase is when the hair is actively growing and lasts between 30-45 days in healthy individuals.

The categen phase is the transitional stage when the follicle shrinks, the hair stops growing and lasts 15- 20 days. The telogen phase is known as the resting stage when the hair remains in the follicle until it falls out, is pulled / rubbed out or is pushed out by another hair. The final phase can last up to 100 days.

Am I a Good Candidate for Latisse in Los Angeles?

For women and men of all ages with thin eyelashes, Latisse offers the perfect solution. After just four weeks of nightly application, lashes appear longer, darker and more defined, with full results manifesting at week 16. Results remain as long as you continue using the product as directed.

If you discontinue using Latisse, your lashes will gradually return to their prior appearance. Latisse now comes in two sizes, 3 ml (which lasts for 1-2 months) and 5 ml (which lasts for 2-3 months). The price ranges from $100 – $160, depending on the size.

Pros and Cons of Latisse

Latisse is FDA-approved and side effects are almost unheard of, although some patients report mild redness immediately post-application. Other patients have experienced slight irritation or itching that generally decreases after a few weeks of treatment.

There may be a slight darkening of the skin above the lashline, although this is only temporary. If irritation persists for more than a few weeks after you begin the treatment, we may suggest you discontinue use, depending on the severity. Latisse is safe for individuals who wear contact lenses, however it should only be applied after removing your lenses for the night.

Some patients, especially those with light colored eyes, are concerned that Latisse may cause brown iris pigmentation. However, this possible side effect is based on studies from glaucoma patients that were applying the product directly into the eye.

There have been no reports of darkening iris pigmentation in patients using Latisse (as directed) for eyelash growth, since the product is applied above the lash-line with a disposable brush (included with each prescription). It is uncommon for the product to get directly into the eye when patients apply it using the brushes provided.

For patients seeking dramatic, exotic looking and healthy lashes, we recommend using a conditioning primer and mascara with keratin, vitamins and peptides to strengthen and protect the eyelashes.

At Westside Aesthetics, we offer Angelique Deville’s Devilash Primer ($18) and Devilash Mascara ($21). We also recommend avoiding waterproof mascara and other harsh products or ingredients. Patients should refrain from activities, such as rubbing the eyes or using cheap lash curlers, that may damage the delicate lash hair.

As with any prescription medication, Dr. Rivkin will review your medical history and conduct a consultation prior to treatment to ensure you’re an appropriate candidate. Individuals with a history of allergies, elevated intraocular pressure, chronic eye infections, or other related conditions might not be suitably qualified.

A single 3ml prescription of Latisse lasts over 30 days and only costs $100. The new 5ml prescription can last up to 3 months and only costs $160. Contact us to schedule your complimentary consultation. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Your lashes will thank you.